Agbekoyas, Legends That Can Never Be Forgotten – Olubadan

By Seyifunmi Odunuga

IBADAN – The Olubabadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji Ogunguniso 1, has described “Agbekoya”, a drama play based on the Farmer’s tax uprising of 1968/1969, as a project that will inspire and make the Yoruba children not to forget their heritage and culture.

Oba Adetunji stated this on Monday, October 12, 2020 at the official presentation of “Agbekoya”, written by Yinka Folahan.

The stage performance and book launch of “Agbekoya” took place at the Mulberry Hall, Mauve21 Event Centre, Ring Road, Ibadan and it was witnessed by cream of the society from within and outside Oyo State.

According to Olubadan, the “Agbekoyas” are legends that will never be forgotten in the history of Yorubaland, while the monarch commended the brain behind the drama play for bring the past to the present for future reference.

Other traditional chiefs and notable individuals across the country that spoke at the ceremony included Oloye Muda Ogunsola who emphasized that the Yoruba heritage is rich and can achieve her aims without violence.
“Agbekoya” uprising took place during the military administration of the then Colonel Adeyinka Adebayo in the old Oyo state.

The uprising which was carried out by local farmers in Akanran Community in Ona-Ara Local Government of Oyo State, had for many years been greatly misunderstood by the people in government in particular and the public in general.

The drama portrayed the pursuit of farmers for liberty, justice, equity and creating awareness for the payment of tax for the government then to ensure a proper tax fund administration, rather than tax compliance, which means that they would “continue to pay tax as long as it will bring in the desired developments”.

Dr. Olusola Ayandele however reviewed the book to the admiration of dignitaries that are in attendance.

People present at the occasion include Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetinji Ogungunniso 1, Yinka Folahan, the Author of the book – “Agbekoya”, Tolu Fagbure, the Producer and Director of the book, Traditional Chiefs and Otunba Deji Osibogun – Chairman, Space FM.

Others are notable actors like Ibrahim Chatta and Muyiwa Adegoke (Londoner), Vice President, NANTA, Pastor Hezekiah Afolabi, NANTA Treasurer, Dr. Olatokunbo Dagunduro, NANTA Pro, Olaleye Abiodun Ajibade, Business Tycoons, Friends and well wishers.

Ecstasy Entertainment Company Band thrilled guests to superlative and articulated musical rendition till the event lasted.